Dress shoes and barefoot shoes rarely go hand in hand, but OAKA’s Derby is here to challenge that notion. As someone who has struggled with stiff, uncomfortable dress shoes during long workdays and business trips, I was intrigued by the idea of a minimalist alternative that doesn’t sacrifice style. The Derby is a zero-drop, lightweight, and flexible dress shoe designed for professionals who want foot freedom while maintaining a polished appearance.
Ideal for business casual wear, travel, and all-day comfort, this barefoot dress shoe provides a wide toe box and breathable materials for a natural fit that moves with your feet. However, it may not be the best option for ultra-formal events, as the sole design still leans toward a casual aesthetic. With a packable, slip-on design and machine-washable materials, the Derby is built for convenience—whether you’re heading to the office, navigating airport terminals, or simply looking for a foot-friendly alternative to traditional dress shoes.
🤓 Tech Spec & Summary
- 🦶 Zero Drop – Faux heel design keeps feet flat for a natural gait.
- 🌀 Flexible Sole – Moves with your foot, unlike stiff traditional dress shoes.
- ⚖️ Lightweight – Feels almost weightless, reducing foot fatigue.
- 🦆 Wide Toe Box – Allows toes to spread naturally for comfort.
- 🌬️ Breathable Upper – Made from sustainable rPET flyknit fibers.
- 👞 Slip-On Design – Faux laces for aesthetics but no need to tie.
- 🛡️ Non-Slip Outsole – Provides stability on various surfaces.
- 🎒 Packable – Retains shape when packed, great for travel.
- 🧼 Machine Washable – Easy maintenance compared to leather shoes.
- 🎨 Available in 3 Colors – Chestnut Brown, Ink Black, Ash Gray.
- 📏 Sizes – US 8-13 (recommend sizing down if a half size).
- 💰 Price – $165 USD.
😍 What I Loved
From the moment I slipped on the OAKA Derby, I could tell this wasn’t your typical dress shoe. Unlike the stiff, restrictive leather shoes I’ve worn in the past, these felt almost weightless and flexible, making walking feel effortless. After a full day of wear—including commuting, meetings, and a dinner out—my feet weren’t aching like they usually would in traditional dress shoes. It felt more like wearing a sneaker than a formal shoe, which was a game-changer for long days on my feet.
The lightweight design also makes them perfect for travel. I packed them in my carry-on for a work trip, and they retained their shape without taking up much space or adding weight. Unlike traditional leather dress shoes that can feel suffocating, the breathable rPET flyknit upper kept my feet cool and sweat-free, even in pretty warm weather. Another big plus is their versatile style—they pair effortlessly with chinos, slacks, and even dark jeans, making them ideal for business casual settings.
For a barefoot-style dress shoe, the Derby delivers where it matters most—comfort, flexibility, and convenience. Whether you’re commuting, standing for long periods, or traveling for work, they provide a foot-friendly alternative to stiff, traditional options.
👊 What Could Be Better
While the OAKA Derby excels in comfort and flexibility, there are a few areas where it falls short—especially when compared to high-end dress shoes. The sole design, for instance, might feel a little too casual for very formal settings. The visible outsole pattern make it obvious that this isn’t a traditional dress shoe and draws unwanted attention, which might not work if you need something polished for a black-tie event or a corporate boardroom. I personally don't mind it, but those who are more conscious of appearance might.
A high-quality leather dress shoe will last a life-time if treated right and, whilst the lightweight materials make the shoe incredibly comfortable, I’m unsure how well they’ll hold up over time with daily wear. After a week of regular use, I didn’t notice any significant wear, but only long-term testing will tell how well they truly hold up. I'll be sure to report back over the coming months, but so far so good.
Then there’s the price—at $165, it’s on the higher end for a non-leather dress shoe. While I personally think the comfort and foot health benefits justify the cost, some may expect more premium materials at this price point.
Overall, the Derby is a fantastic barefoot dress shoe for business casual settings, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. If you need something for ultra-formal events, prefer a more structured feel, or want long-term durability similar to leather shoes, this might not be the perfect fit.
📐 Fitting & Sizing Advice
The OAKA Derby runs true to size, but if you're a half size, it's best to size down for a more secure fit. I ordered my normal size, and the fit was spot on—snug enough to feel secure but roomy in the toe box, allowing for natural toe splay. If you have narrow feet, you might find the extra width a bit too generous, so double-checking OAKA’s sizing guide before ordering is a smart move.
One thing to note is the slip-on design—since there are no functional laces to adjust, getting the right size is key to ensuring a comfortable fit. Once on, they stay in place well, but if you prefer a more locked-in feel, you may want to consider wearing slightly thicker socks.
📦 Pricing, Shipping & Returns
At $165, the Derby sits at the higher end for a synthetic dress shoe, but it’s competitively priced among barefoot dress shoes. I personally feel that the comfort, flexibility, and foot-health benefits help justify the cost—especially for professionals who spend long hours on their feet. If you value natural movement and lightweight design, this is a solid investment. Plus, you can use the discount code Minimal-list15 for 15% off your order.
- 🌍 Ships worldwide – Rates depend on location.
- 🔄 Free exchanges – If the size isn’t right, you can swap it at no cost.
- 📦 Returns accepted – Check OAKA’s website for full return policy details.
For those hesitant about the price, sales and discounts occasionally pop up, so it’s worth checking our Minimal-list sales page for potential deals.
🧼 Care Advice
One major advantage of the OAKA Derby is how easy it is to maintain—something you don’t typically get with dress shoes. Unlike leather options that require conditioning and polishing, these are machine washable, making upkeep effortless.
Best Practices for Longevity:
- 🧼 Machine Washable – Use cold water on a gentle cycle, then air dry to maintain shape.
- 🧴 Spot Clean as Needed – For minor stains, a damp cloth with mild detergent works well.
- 🌧️ Avoid Heavy Water Exposure – The shoe is breathable but not waterproof, so don’t rely on it for rainy weather.
- 📦 Store Properly – Keep in a cool, dry place to help retain its structure and extend its lifespan.
With proper care, the Derby should stay looking fresh while maintaining its barefoot-friendly flexibility.
🌟 Final Thoughts
The OAKA Derby is a rare find in the barefoot shoe world—a dress shoe that blends style with natural foot movement. After wearing them for a few weeks, I can confidently say they deliver on comfort, flexibility, and travel-friendliness. Whether you're commuting, standing all day, or hopping on a flight for a business trip, these provide relief from foot fatigue that traditional dress shoes simply can’t match.
That said, they’re not for everyone. If you need a truly formal shoe, the casual outsole might not meet your expectations. The durability of the lightweight materials remains a question mark for long-term use, and at $165, some may prefer a leather option. However, for those prioritizing foot health, comfort, and a minimalist feel, these are an excellent investment.
If you're considering them, don’t forget to use Minimal-list15 for 15% off your order. Also, check our Minimal-list sales page to see if any additional discounts are available.
📖 New to barefoot shoes? Read this first: Don't Buy Barefoot Shoes Before You READ THIS.
🙋 FAQ
Q: Are OAKA Derby shoes good for formal business settings?
The Derby works well for business casual and smart-casual outfits, but the visible sole and faux heel make them less suited for ultra-formal attire like black-tie events or corporate boardrooms.
Q: Do they feel like traditional dress shoes?
Not at all. Unlike stiff leather dress shoes, these are lightweight, flexible, and allow natural foot movement. They have the look of a dress shoe but the feel of a barefoot sneaker.
Q: Are they comfortable for all-day wear?
Yes! Many users report exceptional comfort, even for standing or walking long hours. The wide toe box and zero-drop sole prevent foot fatigue common in traditional dress shoes.
Q: How do I clean OAKA shoes?
They are machine washable—use cold water and air dry. For quick touch-ups, wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
Q: Do OAKA shoes run true to size?
Yes, but if you're a half size, it’s best to size down for a snug fit. The wide toe box accommodates most foot shapes but may feel roomy for those with narrow feet.
Q: Are these shoes worth the price?
If you value foot health, flexibility, and barefoot-friendly design, they’re a solid investment. However, if you need a high-end formal dress shoe, the price might feel steep for a non-leather option.
Q: How do OAKA Derby shoes compare to traditional dress shoes?
✅ More comfortable – No rigid sole, allowing natural movement.
✅ Lighter & flexible – Feels more like a sneaker than a dress shoe.
❌ Less formal – The materials and outsole don’t fully replicate high-end leather dress shoes.
Q: Can I wear these shoes for travel?
Absolutely! They are lightweight, packable, and retain their shape, making them a great choice for business travel.